Clifton. Dear me, what a situation! [Thoughtfully to himself.] I wonder how a rough scenario would strike the managers.
Richard. Poor Mr. Clifton!
Clifton. Why poor?
Richard. You missed all the best part. You didn't hear what I said to Crawshaw about money before you came.
Clifton [thoughtfully]. Oh! was it very—[Brightening up.] But I expect Uncle Antony heard. [After a pause.] Well, I must be getting on. I wonder if you've noticed any important papers lying about, in connection with the Great Missenden Canal Company—a most intricate case, in which my clerk and I—[He has murmured himself across to the fireplace, and the fragments of his important case suddenly catch his eye. He picks up one of the fragments.] Ah, yes. Well, I shall tell my clerk that we lost the case. He will be sorry. He had got quite fond of that canal. [He turns to go, but first says to Meriton.] So you're taking the money, Mr. Meriton?
Richard. Yes.
Clifton. And Mr. Crawshaw too?
Richard. Yes.
Clifton [to himself as he goes out]. They are both taking it. [He stops and looks up to Uncle Antony with a smile.] Good old Uncle Antony—he knew—he knew! [Meriton stands watching him as he goes.]
[THE CURTAIN.]